Use over-the-counter earwax-softening drops as directed on the label
Place a few drops of mineral oil, baby oil, glycerin, or hydrogen peroxide solution in the ear if appropriate
Tilt your head to let the drops stay in the ear for a few minutes
Gently rinse the ear with warm water using a bulb syringe if you have no ear pain, drainage, or eardrum problems
Let warm water run into the ear during a shower, then tilt your head to drain it
Wipe only the outer ear with a soft cloth
Repeat softening and rinsing for a few days if needed
Stop if you feel pain, dizziness, ringing, or worsening hearing
Avoid using cotton swabs, hairpins, or other objects in the ear
Seek medical help if the wax does not come out, if you have ear pain, hearing loss, discharge, fever, or a history of ear surgery or a perforated eardrum